Snorkeling in Marietas Islands and BBQ in Playa Majahuitas

Snorkeling in Marietas Islands and BBQ in Playa Majahuitas

Looking for a day that combines wildlife, water activities, and relaxation? This tour takes you from the iconic Marietas Islands to the gorgeous sands of Majahuitas, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, and enjoy a delicious beachside BBQ. For just over $140 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours immersed in the natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta’s coast, guided by expert locals who love sharing their home.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience: first, the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life—something that makes every swimming moment feel like discovering an underwater wonderland. Second, the relaxed, all-day atmosphere at Majahuitas, where you’ll feast on a BBQ buffet and unwind on a pristine, exclusive beach.

A possible drawback? The admission fee for the Marietas Islands isn’t included in the initial price, adding about 20 USD in extra costs. Also, the tour’s physical demands—like swimming or kayaking—mean it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate level of fitness.

This tour is perfect for families, couples, and adventurers eager to combine nature exploration with leisure. If you love stunning seascapes, wildlife watching, or simply a laid-back beach day with good food and cold drinks, this experience ticks many boxes.

• Stunning Views: The panoramic seascapes from the boat are breathtaking and ideal for photos.
• Diverse Activities: Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and bird watching make the day lively and varied.
• Natural Beauty: The Marietas Islands’ volcanic landscape offers a unique backdrop for water adventures.
• Relaxing Beach Time: Majahuitas is a quiet, beautiful spot for swimming, lounging, and enjoying a BBQ buffet.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Open bar, food, and entertainment onboard add to the relaxed vibe.
• Extra Costs: Be aware of additional fees for park and environmental protections not included in the initial price.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Journey to the Islands

The adventure kicks off early—meet at 8:00 am, with check-in at least 30 minutes beforehand. As you board your boat, you’ll be greeted by friendly guides and the promise of a day full of scenic views and new experiences. The boat ride from the meeting point to the Bay of Banderas provides impressive panoramic vistas of Puerto Vallarta’s coastline—ideal for snapping photos of the skyline and ocean.

The trip itself is comfortable, with a restroom onboard and entertainment designed to set the mood. Soft music plays as you cruise, and guides share interesting facts about the area. This leg of the journey is a highlight for many—both for its visual beauty and the anticipation of what’s to come.

Exploring the Marietas Islands

Once arriving at the Islas Marietas National Park, you’ll be in one of Mexico’s most striking volcanic archipelagos. The islands’ jagged peaks and hidden coves make for captivating scenery, and with admission tickets not included, you’ll want to budget around $20 USD for entry.

Here, your guides lead water activities like snorkeling in clear waters rich with fish and coral, as well as kayaking and bird watching—the islands are home to endemic bird species that add an extra layer of interest for nature lovers. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guides explained the local environment, making it both fun and educational.”

While water activities last around two hours, you’ll have time to explore at your own pace, soaking in the beauty of the surroundings. Many travelers highlight the stunning underwater scenery as a major highlight, making snorkeling a must-do.

Transition to Majahuitas

After a couple of hours at the islands, the boat takes you back across the bay to the beautiful beach of Majahuitas. This 1-hour journey offers more gorgeous sea views and a chance to relax and reflect on the morning’s adventures.

Relaxing at Majahuitas

Once ashore, the focus shifts to rest and indulgence. Majahuitas is renowned for its secluded, pristine beaches, perfect for unwinding or enjoying water activities like paddleboarding and floating on inflatable banana rides. The beach club provides a peaceful setting to sip drinks and enjoy the BBQ buffet, which is a highlight for many.

Guests rave about the quality of the food—“the BBQ was delicious, with plenty of options and fresh flavors”—and the open bar adds to the carefree atmosphere. The relaxed pace and natural beauty make it a perfect spot to hang out, go for a swim, or simply soak up the sun.

Return Trip and Evening Entertainment

The day winds down with a pleasant one-hour ride back to the starting point. During this time, soft music and light entertainment help you relax after a full day of activity. Many reviewers mention how the casual, friendly vibe leaves travelers feeling refreshed and happy.

Additional Practical Details

Price and Value: At $144.13, this tour offers a combination of water sports, scenic views, and a beachside feast—an experience that many find well worth the price, especially considering the inclusion of entertainment, drinks, and food. Extra costs—about $20 for park admission, $33 MXN dock tax, and a $180 MXN conservation bracelet—are manageable but worth noting for your budget.

Duration and Group Size: The tour lasts around 7 hours, starting at 8 am, with a maximum group size of 100 travelers. This means you’ll enjoy a lively but not overcrowded atmosphere, with plenty of opportunity for interaction with guides.

Physical Fit: The activities involve swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, so a moderate physical fitness level is recommended. Life jackets are mandatory for water activities, ensuring safety for all participants.

Environmental Regulations: Drones are prohibited to protect endemic birds’ flight paths, reflecting the tour’s commitment to conservation. You might find the extra fee for the conservation bracelet to be a small price for supporting ecological efforts.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families who want a safe and fun water adventure, couples looking for a romantic day in a stunning setting, or adventurers eager to explore marine life and volcanic islands. If you’re after picture-perfect scenery, snorkeling, and a laid-back beach lunch, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

This Puerto Vallarta tour combines spectacular landscapes, engaging water activities, and a relaxing beachside meal into one well-rounded day. The stunning views from the boat and the vivid underwater life are highlights that will stick with you long after the day ends. The inclusive atmosphere, with open bar and entertainment, makes it suitable for those wanting a carefree experience.

While there’s an extra cost for park entry and conservation fees, the value for the diverse activities and beautiful locations is commendable. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who want a mix of adventure and relaxation without sacrificing comfort or scenery.

This tour offers a balanced blend of exploration, fun, and leisure, making it an ideal day trip for anyone visiting Puerto Vallarta who craves a little bit of everything—nature, water, food, and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any additional costs besides the tour price?
Yes, the admission to the Marietas Islands is not included and costs around $20 USD. You will also need to pay a dock tax of 33 MXN per person and a conservation bracelet fee of 180 MXN.

What time does the tour start?
It begins promptly at 8:00 am, so plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early for check-in.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, the activities involve moderate physical effort, so it’s best for kids with moderate fitness levels. The setting is family-friendly, but parents should be comfortable with water-based activities.

Are drinks included during the day?
Yes, there’s an open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available throughout the trip, adding to the relaxed, festive atmosphere.

How long are the water activities?
Water activities like snorkeling and kayaking typically last about two hours. You’ll have free time at Majahuitas for swimming and relaxing afterward.

Can I expect wildlife encounters?
Absolutely. The islands are home to endemic bird species, and guided bird watching is part of the experience, providing a nice complement to the marine adventures.

This tour provides a well-rounded encounter with Puerto Vallarta’s natural wonders, making it a highly recommendable choice for those seeking a memorable, active, and scenic day in Mexico.